RAF jet flypast for Allied Aircrew Memorial first anniversary
A FLYPAST by an RAF jet concluded a service to mark the first anniversary of the dedication of the Allied Aircrew Memorial at the airport yesterday.
The noise of the Panavia Tornado GR4 from 12 Squadron, RAF Marham, Norfolk, activated security alarms on several vehicles in the adjacent car park.
Jersey pilot George Le Cornu flew the aircraft from north to south, then west to east, with Wing Commander Nikki Thomas – the first woman commanding officer of an RAF fast jet squadron – in the rear seat as navigator.
The memorial commemorates the 153 Allied aircrew who lost their lives in Bailiwick waters during the Second World War.
The service was conducted by Vice-Dean, the Rev. Mike Keirle, who honoured the sacrifice and service that 153 people from the UK, Canada, Australia, New Zealand, the United States and Czechoslovakia had given in the cause of freedom. Those attending included representatives from Rafa, Safa, the CI Occupation Society, the Forest douzaine and ex-service people as well as bystanders.
